Russian Convict Released Twice for Ukraine Combat After Killing Elderly Woman

In a disturbing turn of events, Ivan Rossomakhin, a convicted murderer who first gained notoriety for the brutal killing of an elderly woman, has been released from prison for a second time to fight in Ukraine. The case has sparked outrage and fear among the victim's family and highlighted the controversial practice of releasing convicts to bolster Russia’s military efforts.

Rossomakhin’s Brutal Crimes and Release

Rossomakhin, who was serving a 14-year prison sentence for murder, was first released from incarceration in 2022 to join the Wagner mercenary group. He was subsequently allowed to return to his home district of Vyatskiye Polyany in Russia’s Kirov Region, where he brutally attacked and murdered 85-year-old Yulia Byuskikh in her own home. The crime, marked by extreme brutality, led to his conviction in April 2023. Rossomakhin was sentenced to 22 years in a high-security prison, a term later extended to 23 years.

However, in a shocking development, Rossomakhin was released on August 19, just a week after the start of his extended sentence. The release was sanctioned under a specific Russian law that permits the military to recruit convicts for frontline combat. Anna Pekareva, Byuskikh’s granddaughter, expressed her horror at the news, emphasizing the lack of justice and the broader implications of such policies.

The Wagner Group and Russia’s Recruitment Policies

Shortly after the start of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Yevgeny Prigozhin’s Wagner mercenary group began recruiting convicts from Russian prisons. Inmates who agreed to fight were promised pardons from Russian President Vladimir Putin. Thousands of dangerous criminals, including rapists and murderers, were released to join the frontline, many of whom were subsequently killed in brutal battles, such as those in Bakhmut.

Following Prigozhin’s failed mutiny last year, the recruitment of prisoners was formalized under federal law in March 2024. Convicted criminals now have their sentences suspended during military service and could potentially receive pardons for battlefield valor.

Global Reactions and Implications

The Russian Embassy in London has not commented on the practice of releasing dangerous convicts for military service. Meanwhile, Ukraine has also recruited some prisoners, but excludes those convicted of serious crimes such as murder or sexual offenses.

The UK Ministry of Defence has reported significant losses for Russian forces in Ukraine, estimating up to 70,000 casualties over two months. This staggering loss underscores the Kremlin’s desperation for recruits, driving the controversial policy of using convicts to fill the ranks.

Anna Pekareva’s concerns extend beyond her family’s safety. She fears that Rossomakhin’s release places her and her relatives in extreme danger and questions the safety of civilians in Russia under such policies. "It's frightening to think that he's not the only one. How many more dangerous criminals are out there?" she questioned, revealing plans to leave the country and ensure her family’s safety.

SEO Title: Russian Murderer Released Twice to Fight in Ukraine After Killing Elderly Woman

SEO Description:The case highlights Russia's controversial policy of using convicted criminals as military recruits.